In a significant step towards bolstering indigenous defence technology, the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT-H) and the Indian Army’s Simulator Development Division (SDD) have established a Centre of Excellence (CoE) named VIGRAHA. Short for Virtual, Intelligent, Ground-breaking Research in AR/VR & High-tech Applications for the Indian Army, the centre aims to accelerate innovation in critical defence technologies.
The formal inauguration of VIGRAHA took place at IIT-H following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Army Training Command (Shimla). The CoE will focus on cutting-edge technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, unmanned systems, and defence-grade drones. The collaboration is designed to co-develop tailored solutions that address the Indian Army’s evolving simulation and operational needs.
Representing the Army’s SDD at the event were Brigadier A.K. Chaturvedi, Col Hari Om Ahlawat, and Lt Col Anupam Porwal. From IIT-H, the initiative is led by director Prof. B.S. Murty, Prof. G. Narahari Sastry (dean of Sponsored Research & Consultancy), and Dr Shiva Ji (associate professor and principal investigator).
Prof. Murty emphasised the importance of the collaboration, stating, “This partnership demonstrates defence-academia synergy and will support India’s push towards Atmanirbhar Bharat in military technology.” The MoU outlines joint research, academic programmes, internships, shared facilities, and incubator-level innovation projects.
Established in 1991, the Army’s SDD has been the nodal agency for simulator design and is now expanding its focus into AI, AR/VR, and robotics. Officials highlighted that VIGRAHA will enhance operational readiness by providing locally built, state-of-the-art training and battlefield simulation tools.
This collaboration underscores the growing emphasis on indigenous defence innovation in India. By leveraging the expertise of IIT-H and the operational experience of the Indian Army, VIGRAHA is poised to drive advancements in military technology, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of defence innovation.
As geopolitical tensions continue to evolve, the need for advanced simulation and training tools has become increasingly critical. VIGRAHA’s focus on AR/VR, AI, and robotics will not only enhance the Army’s operational capabilities but also foster a culture of innovation within the defence sector. This initiative could set a precedent for future defence-academia partnerships, paving the way for a more self-reliant and technologically advanced military.